WPL 2026 MI vs RCB Opener Announced by BCCI
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 will get underway earlier than usual, with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the curtain-raiser on January 9 in Navi Mumbai. The BCCI officially released the full schedule on Saturday, confirming the tournament’s shift to an advanced window to avoid a clash with the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from mid-February. So let’s have a look at WPL 2026 MI vs RCB opener.
WPL 2026 Scheduled from January 9 to February 5
The fourth edition of the WPL will be played between January 9 and February 5, marking a packed yet balanced tournament window. Hosting responsibilities will be shared between Navi Mumbai and Vadodara, with both venues offering back-to-back high-intensity matches.
The opening phase of the competition will take place at the DY Patil Stadium, which will host the first 11 games between January 9 and 17. Fans in Navi Mumbai will witness the beginning of the season as well as several marquee clashes featuring top stars of women’s cricket.
Vadodara to Host Second Half of League Matches
After the opening leg, the league shifts to Vadodara for the remaining 11 fixtures. The Vadodara leg begins with a match between Gujarat Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, setting the tone for the second half of the league phase.
The league stage will continue until February 1, determining the teams entering the knockout rounds. Notably, the season features just two double-header days—January 10 and January 17—and both of these will include UP Warriorz playing the afternoon encounters.
Eliminator on February 3; Grand Finale on February 5
The playoffs will follow the established WPL format. The Eliminator, contested between the teams finishing second and third in the league standings, is scheduled for February 3. The team topping the points table will earn a direct entry into the final, which will be played on February 5 in Vadodara.
The structure continues to reward consistency, making the race for the top spot in the league phase even more crucial.
Mega Auction Shapes New-Look Lineups Across All Teams
Earlier this week, all five franchises assembled their squads during the first-ever WPL mega auction, which produced several headline-making signings and team revamps. With fresh squads, new strategies, and rising talents entering the league, WPL 2026 promises one of the most exciting seasons yet.
The early start not only ensures seamless coordination with the men’s global event but also sets the stage for another action-packed edition of the world’s premier women’s T20 league.
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